This unit is the first of three (3) clinical placement units within the Bachelor of Paramedic Science course, with a maximum of five (5) weeks clinical placement in a clinical setting with an approved provider. You will apply clinical knowledge, reasoning and practical skills at a novice level in the clinical environment, whilst engaging in reflective practice activities to support self-directed learning. Preparation activities will increase workplace literacy and provide guidance on navigating the student-mentor relationship, ensuring you enjoy a positive and successful first clinical placement.

Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.

Feedback from SUTE

In terms of the reflection during placement, I think a fairer grading method would be useful as it is not representative of progress that can be made within 4 shifts of placement if that's the first 2 weeks for example. A 3 and a 4 for the mentor reports means they think you essentially have no need for improvement. A 2 rating would be fair as someone progressing well. However it is deemed at risk. I think some thought should go into how this is perceived with the mentors of QAS and how accurate this is at representing the student and perhaps a mandatory further detailed response from mentors would be useful in conjunction rather than just the extra comments or feedback. It could be specific to the areas they are marking.

Have changed the existing 4-point Likert to a 5-point Likert approach as well as a descriptor to assist the student and mentor understand what impact the score provides. This is to minimise confusion and avoid unnecessary negative scores by either the student or the mentor.

Feedback from SUTE & Emails

The portfolio was useful to consolidate information and skills utilised during prac however the quiz did not seem useful or necessary. The information received prior to prac and expectations was clearly outlined.

2023 offering to have the quiz removed as frequent feedback from students identified that they did not feel that the quiz offered any value.

Feedback from SUTE

Have a PowerPoint dedicated to the policy and code of conduct so that students are clear on what is right and wrong. As being told that placements are cancelled for a mistake made, 4 shifts before finishing placements is very upsetting even whilst showing remorse and disappointment in myself.

2023 offering to have a pre-term compulsory activity that will focus on Code and Conduct, patient privacy and social media. This activity will need to be completed by the student prior to the modules of the unit being made visible to the student.